MUMC Participating in National Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Clinical Trial

(May 6, 2013) Memorial University Medical Center (MUMC) is participating in a clinical trial that may redefine lumbar spinal stenosis surgery. The study focuses on a new concept in spine surgery called facet joint replacement. The trial evaluates the safety and effectiveness of an investigational device called the ACADIAFacet Replacement System. MUMC is the only hospital in Georgia and one of only 30 in the U.S. participating in this study.

In the clinical trial, surgeons will perform a standard surgical decompression to relieve nerve pressure and pain. However, instead of fusing the spine following decompression, the surgeon will replace the facet joints with the ACADIA implant.

The study is open to men and women between the ages of 21 and 85 who have been diagnosed with lumbar spinal stenosis and have had at least six months of non-surgical treatment, such as medication, injections, and physical therapy. Additional criteria must also be met for inclusion in the study. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Victoria Taylor, R.N., supervisor for general research studies, at 912-350-8568 or email taylovi2@memorialhealth.com.

Neurosurgeon James Lindley, M.D., is a principal investigator for this clinical trial and one of a select group throughout the U.S. taking part in this landmark study.

“Patients often lose some range of motion following spinal fusion surgery. The ACADIA device is designed with motion preservation in mind. Patients who are treated using the ACADIA system may require fewer future additional surgical procedures resulting from the mechanical stress of fusion at the adjacent spinal levels. This trial has the potential to improve the quality of life for many patients with lumbar spinal stenosis,” said Lindley

Every year, more than 300,000 people are affected by lumbar spinal stenosis, a condition in which the narrowing of the spinal canal puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, causing back and leg pain. Conventional surgery involves the permanent fusion of spine bones and joints, stabilizing the spine. Although effective, fusion may eliminate the natural range of motion between these bones, possibly leading to further spine degeneration.